DAVID DE GEA is reportedly poised to sign for Real Madrid, regardless of whether or not Iker Casillas stays.

De Gea has been heavily linked with a £50million switch to the La Liga giants.

United have been drawing up a shortlist of potential replacements for De Gea's possible departure, with Chelsea's Petr Cech and Tottenham shot-stopper Hugo Lloris identified as targets.

Louis van Gaal also admitted after United's 1-1 draw at home to Arsenal on Sunday, that he may be powerless to prevent De Gea leaving, as he said: "I don't think I can persuade him. Because he knows everything what he has at this moment in Manchester United so I don't have to say something in benefit of it."

Spanish paper Marca claimed yesterday De Gea agreed terms with Real.

However, rival publication AS suggest that De Gea hasn't agreed a deal yet.

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David De Gea could be heading for the Old Trafford exit

They suggest however, that Real are confident they can lure De Gea to the Bernabeu regardless of whether Casillas, who has been linked to Arsenal, stays.

They also note that De Gea would be prepared to rival Casillas for the number gloves were he to complete a summer move.